Housing Caseworker West

The team is a busy statutory frontline service that seeks to sympathetically yet robustly assist households who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. You will have support from various teams within the service to help you deliver the best options for our customers.

This role offers flexible, hybrid working arrangements. There is an option to have an office base at multiple locations across Dorset, as well as working from home. Our Housing Caseworkers also participate in in-person surgeries at Customer Access Points in libraries, with a duty rota to deliver this service.

The position is initially offered on a fixed-term contract of 1 year to cover a secondment, with the possibility of extension.

The reasons why someone becomes homeless are varied. As a Housing Caseworker, you will be expected to handle and advise on a wide range of issues, including but not limited to:

• Assessing duties owed under the Housing Act 1996
• Tenants\’ rights and occupation
• Benefit eligibility and assisting with claims
• Rent or mortgage arrears
• Managing debt
• Supporting individuals at risk of violence or abuse
• Applying for social housing
• Securing accommodation in the private rented sector

For customers owed a duty under homelessness legislation, you will assess their needs and develop Personal Housing Plans outlining the steps to resolve their situation.

We seek individuals who can develop positive, professional relationships and work in partnership with other agencies to support clients. Maintaining and developing relationships with colleagues, landlords, and a wide range of agencies is essential.

Are you customer-focused with good communication skills? We need applicants who can adapt their communication style to provide specialist advice to a diverse range of people and organizations. Excellent verbal and written communication skills are required.

Can you switch between tasks efficiently? Housing Caseworkers handle diverse cases, often switching quickly from one to another. You will need a solid understanding of homelessness legislation and other statutory sources to advise applicants effectively.

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